Hunter Unisex
Origin(s)
PronunciationHUN-ter / /ˈhʌntər/English; Old French
Meaning
English: one who hunts; Old French: hunter
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Hunter originates from the Old English term "hunta," which means "one who hunts." This term is derived from the Proto-Germanic root "hunthaz," which also relates to the act of hunting. The name entered the English language during the medieval period, reflecting the importance of hunting in feudal society, where it was often associated with nobility and land ownership. As a surname, Hunter became established in England and Scotland, where it was used to denote someone who engaged in hunting, either as a profession or as a pastime associated with the gentry.
Historically, the name Hunter has been borne by notable figures, including several Scottish clansmen and English nobles. In the 12th century, hunting was not only a means of sustenance but also a sport for the elite, leading to the name's association with status and skill. The name appears in various historical documents, including land grants and records of the nobility, indicating its significance in medieval society. The use of Hunter as a given name became more common in the 19th century, reflecting a broader trend of adopting surnames as first names in English-speaking cultures.
Culturally, the name Hunter evokes themes of adventure, nature, and the outdoors, resonating with traditions of exploration and survival. It has been associated with various literary and artistic representations of the hunter archetype, symbolizing bravery and the connection to the natural world. Additionally, diminutive forms such as Hunt or Hunte have been used historically, though Hunter remains the most recognized form. The name's enduring appeal can be attributed to its strong, masculine connotations and its deep-rooted connections to historical practices and societal roles.
Trend Summary
Hunter has seen a steady increase in popularity in the United States over the past few decades.
Similar Names
Variants
- Hunt
- Huntington
International Variants
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Famous people named Hunter
Hunter S. Thompson is a journalist and author best known for Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, Hell's Angels: The Strange and Terrible Saga of the Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs, and The Rum Diary.
Hunter Hayes is a country music singer and songwriter best known for his hits Wanted, I Want Crazy, and Tattoo.
Hunter Parrish is an actor best known for his roles in Weeds, 17 Again, and the Broadway musical Spring Awakening.
Hunter Biden is an attorney and businessman best known for his work with investment firms and as the son of Joe Biden.
Fictional characters named Hunter
Hunter is a fictional character from the video game series Monster Hunter. He is a skilled warrior tasked with hunting down and slaying formidable monsters to protect his village.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Hunter was first seen in the United States in 1880. Hunter has ranked as high as #52 nationally, which occurred in 2000, and has been most popular in Texas, California, Florida, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. In the past 5 years the name Hunter has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Hunter (2024)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
CA | 221 | |
TX | 203 | |
NY | 172 | |
FL | 160 | |
OH | 123 | |
NC | 109 | |
PA | 107 | |
MI | 89 | |
GA | 87 | |
TN | 87 | |
IN | 86 | |
MO | 75 | |
VA | 65 | |
IL | 65 | |
AL | 63 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1880 | 12 |
1881 | 6 |
1882 | 10 |
1883 | 6 |
1884 | 6 |
1885 | 10 |
1886 | 7 |
1888 | 16 |
1889 | 11 |
1890 | 8 |
1891 | 11 |
1892 | 11 |
1893 | 12 |
1894 | 9 |
1895 | 7 |
1896 | 15 |
1897 | 8 |
1898 | 10 |
1899 | 10 |
1900 | 12 |
1901 | 8 |
1902 | 15 |
1903 | 5 |
1904 | 17 |
1905 | 14 |
1906 | 13 |
1907 | 13 |
1908 | 15 |
1909 | 13 |
1910 | 16 |
1911 | 17 |
1912 | 28 |
1913 | 36 |
1914 | 42 |
1915 | 50 |
1916 | 47 |
1917 | 60 |
1918 | 68 |
1919 | 55 |
1920 | 69 |
1921 | 48 |
1922 | 56 |
1923 | 69 |
1924 | 67 |
1925 | 35 |
1926 | 60 |
1927 | 56 |
1928 | 55 |
1929 | 61 |
1930 | 40 |
1931 | 50 |
1932 | 52 |
1933 | 34 |
1934 | 45 |
1935 | 44 |
1936 | 22 |
1937 | 35 |
1938 | 32 |
1939 | 39 |
1940 | 36 |
1941 | 33 |
1942 | 41 |
1943 | 42 |
1944 | 41 |
1945 | 49 |
1946 | 60 |
1947 | 68 |
1948 | 49 |
1949 | 51 |
1950 | 49 |
1951 | 49 |
1952 | 51 |
1953 | 41 |
1954 | 68 |
1955 | 55 |
1956 | 62 |
1957 | 72 |
1958 | 63 |
1959 | 66 |
1960 | 70 |
1961 | 70 |
1962 | 76 |
1963 | 68 |
1964 | 76 |
1965 | 67 |
1966 | 66 |
1967 | 80 |
1968 | 93 |
1969 | 98 |
1970 | 112 |
1971 | 100 |
1972 | 84 |
1973 | 87 |
1974 | 92 |
1975 | 109 |
1976 | 130 |
1977 | 159 |
1978 | 145 |
1979 | 196 |
1980 | 243 |
1981 | 266 |
1982 | 317 |
1983 | 357 |
1984 | 460 |
1985 | 567 |
1986 | 672 |
1987 | 808 |
1988 | 980 |
1989 | 1,206 |
1990 | 1,391 |
1991 | 1,929 |
1992 | 2,540 |
1993 | 3,792 |
1994 | 5,585 |
1995 | 6,715 |
1996 | 7,603 |
1997 | 8,405 |
1998 | 11,078 |
1999 | 11,485 |
2000 | 12,538 |
2001 | 11,336 |
2002 | 11,085 |
2003 | 9,900 |
2004 | 8,902 |
2005 | 8,512 |
2006 | 8,574 |
2007 | 8,218 |
2008 | 8,045 |
2009 | 7,748 |
2010 | 7,333 |
2011 | 7,379 |
2012 | 8,050 |
2013 | 8,985 |
2014 | 8,838 |
2015 | 8,361 |
2016 | 7,675 |
2017 | 6,754 |
2018 | 6,114 |
2019 | 5,396 |
2020 | 4,780 |
2021 | 4,201 |
2022 | 3,597 |
2023 | 3,122 |
2024 | 2,831 |